A Liverpool FC fan killed his best friend when he punched him during “silly row” after Liverpool faced defeat in the Europa League final.
Richard Eveleigh, click 63, swung a single punch at his best friend Paul Lightowler which caused the 60-year-old to fall and bag his head.
Mr Lightowler was taken to hospital following the altercation which took place in Gradwell Street, in Liverpool city centre, on May 18.
Eveleigh was originally arrested on suspicion of wounding him with intent however his friend died some nine days later in hospital and Eveleigh was then charged with his killing.
Eveleigh pleaded guilty to manslaughter today at Liverpool Crown Court.
Michael Goldwater, defending, said: “This is a case of what is sometimes called ‘one punch manslaughter’ – a tragic case for all involved with it.
“The defendant and his friend of 45 years standing went to watch a football match together, with various members of their family.
“Liverpool having lost, on the way back a rather silly in retrospect row developed, which fizzled on.
“It ended up with the defendant taking a swing at Mr Lightowler, who it appears fell over and suffered fatal injuries.”